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• TAIWAN TRIP • June—July, 2008 Taiwan Lily was a glass fusing created to show my fusing techniques while traveling in Taiwan, along with my ipod filled with additional creations. I was interested to view other fusing artist's styles and techniques, since I am self taught from a book bought on the internet six years ago. Hsinchu, just outside of Taipei has a glass museum, currently exhibiting local and international glass artists. After being introduced to Mr. Lee, the museum's sponser and showing him my glass fusing the art journey began. The Lee family creates glass artwork and technical glassware at J.I. Glass Company in Hsinchu. I was invited to lecture at a conference the next day, June 25 which included Taiwan's Director of Cultural Affairs, the Mayor of Hsinchu, glass teachers, students, and the Taipei News. A lively round of questions concerning my techniques ensued. Before my demonstration was scheduled on July 8 Mr. and Mrs. Lee invited me to visis two of Taiwan's Master Glass Artists, Masters Chen and Huang. Master Chen has been creating glass and ceramic temple artwork for the past 30 years. Working on a sample with him I was invited to study under his guidance for 4 months. Master Huang showed me his crushed limestone and paper slurry technique, which was unknown to me and I created a sample piece for future possibilities. I've since incorporated this technique into my "metamorphic" creations, which you can view by selecting the Metamorphic gallery. After visiting The National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences and discussing possible exhibit space I viewed the Glass Museum located at the Taiwan Mirror Glass Enterprise Company at Hua Hsien. Over 100 glass artists show their works amid the company's architectural glass display. Much tea, food, and friendly conversation were enjoyed at each introduction. The July 8 class had to be improvised with their supply of glass and tools, since mine were thousands of miles away. Re-creating Taiwan Lily, I demonstrated my use of layers, powders, and chips to give depth and texture in a realistic style. We also discussed other variations while viewing my website projected onto the wall. At the conclusion of our trip we went to Taipei Eye, featuring traditional folk dance and Chinese opera. There we were interviewed by the Taiwan public television station . 
Hsinchu lecture |
Michelle with Taiwan Lily 
Michelle with Master Chen 
Master Chen's temple artwork |